Coors Field Metal Detectors Are 'Sign Of The Times'
DENVER (CBS4) - Starting on opening day, Rockies fans will have to walk through metal detectors at every gate of Coors Field.
Every person entering the ballpark will have to remove their phone, wallet, and keys for the metal detector. Unlike the airport, though, shoes or belts will not be asked to be removed.
It's a new part of the Coors Field experience, and fans have mixed feelings.
"I think it's a great idea, I really do. It's important," said fan Shelley, whereas Priscilla Cisneros stated, "I would prefer not to have them."
As part of a new safety plan, Major League Baseball will implement metal detectors for fans entering every major league park.
They'll be in place at Coors Field for the Rockies' home opener on April 10.
Rockies representative Kevin Khan said all fans will walk through one of 50 metal detectors to begin the screening process. Metal items will be placed in bins, "They'll need to take cell phones, keys, any heavy metal objects out of their pockets. Walk through the metal detectors and get the items back on the other side," he explained.
No shoes or clothing will be removed, and people without bags can enter through an express lane. The procedure will be very familiar to Denver sports fans.
"The Pepsi Center has the same walk through units we have, the Broncos at Sports Authority Field do hand metal detection-- hand wands," said Khan.
He said the metal detectors were tested at a few games last season with no problems. If fans arrive at the gate 15 minutes earlier than usual, the screening should be hassle free.
As the Rockies gear up for another year, fan Tom Nellessen said the new safety measures are a sign of the times.
"As a fan, I think it's better safe than sorry. With all the stuff going on these days, it's better to be safe," he said.
Coors Field gates open 2 hours before the first pitch. More info at Rockies.com.
